Organic Low Risk
Trichloroethylene (TCE)
Liver problems, increased cancer risk
Sources: Metal degreasing, Industrial discharge
Regulatory Limit
Zero EPA Limit (5 μg/L)
*Levels above the EPA limit are considered unsafe.
MCL Value
5 μg/L
Goal (MCLG)
0 μg/L
Violating Systems
5 nationwide
Affected Population
1.5M estimated
Avg Detected Level
2.9076 μg/L in affected systems
Health Risk Assessment
Exposure to Trichloroethylene (TCE) in drinking water is regulated because of its potential to cause liver problems, increased cancer risk. The EPA has set the Maximum Contaminant Level (MCL) at 5 μg/L to protect public health.
Note: Long-term exposure above the MCL can significantly increase health risks.
Detailed Health Effects
Liver problems, increased cancer risk
Common Sources
1
Metal degreasing 2
Industrial discharge National Overview
Total Tests
59
Violations Found
5
Violation Rate
8.5%
Top States by Violations
Most Affected Systems
81
City of St. Petersburg Water
B FL5520234 St. Petersburg, FL
265,351 served
69
Oklahoma City Water Utilities Trust
C OK3010001 Oklahoma City, OK
687,725 served
89
City of Salem Public Works
B OR4100700 Salem, OR
175,535 served
77
Lewiston-Auburn Water
B ME0090561 Lewiston, ME
37,121 served
81
Orlando Utilities Commission
B FL3480468 Orlando, FL
312,305 served
Treatment Methods
Granular activated carbon
Packed tower aeration
Is this in your water?
Find out if your local water system has detected Trichloroethylene (TCE).
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Trichloroethylene (TCE) and why is it in drinking water?
Trichloroethylene (TCE) is a organic contaminant. Common sources include: Metal degreasing, Industrial discharge.
What are the health effects of Trichloroethylene (TCE) in drinking water?
Liver problems, increased cancer risk
What is the EPA limit for Trichloroethylene (TCE)?
The EPA Maximum Contaminant Level (MCL) for Trichloroethylene (TCE) is 5 μg/L.
How can I remove Trichloroethylene (TCE) from my water?
Effective treatment methods for removing Trichloroethylene (TCE) include: Granular activated carbon, Packed tower aeration.
How do I test my water for Trichloroethylene (TCE)?
You can check your water system's annual Consumer Confidence Report for Trichloroethylene (TCE) levels, or use a certified home water testing kit. WaterQ provides the latest EPA test data for all public water systems.